The man, the myth, the legend Glenn O’Brien has come out with another book just this past April I believe on the ins and outs of manhood and what goes in to making a man a “real” man. If you liked The Style Guy (O’Brien’s last novel) or even if you didn’t read it I would suggest picking up a copy of How To be a Man. I’m not usually a big reader, but I am making a more conscious effort read at least 2 books per season. For Spring my selections were Anthony Bourdain’s New York Times best-selling Kitchen Confidential and the great Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy. Both great reads focused on topics that appeal to me but none as up my alley as O’Brien’s. I’m only 50 pages in and I’m already recommending it (although I’m sure I would have done so whether I read it or not solely based on his reputation). The book, more of a social and anthropological commentary than a guide on being a man is well written and contains great insight from one of the most credible sources on the topics in question. I have however found several errors that I’m sure the editor wouldn’t be happy he missed but I won’t hold that against either of them. The content is great so far and I’m a big fan of the books’ aesthetics and illustrations by renowned illustrator Jean-Philippe Delhomme who has done all of the previous Style Guy illustrations.

On college campuses across the country it is becoming increasingly common to see a trend towards classic American style (think JFK). It is hard to walk across a campus here in Washington, DC like George Washington, Georgetown, American, or even Howard without seeing varsity cardigans, top-siders, repp ties, and university chinos.  I would say this is partly based on the style of the region and stores like Ralph Lauren (and Rugby Ralph Lauren), Vineyard Vines, and Brooks Brothers all in close proximity. But again that’s only part of it. No matter where you go classic American style is making a comeback. Some people call it the “preppy” look others the “Ivy” look, but no matter what you label it the trend has expanded past Ivy League Universities and New England Prep Schools.  For those looking to explore classic American style pick up a copy of The Ivy Look by Graham Marsh and J.P Gaul. The book is a comprehensive guide to everything classic American including suiting, shirting, footwear, headwear, neckwear, etc. They leave no topic untouched and provide excellent photos and illustrations of classic American establishments and style icons. The Ivy Look offers a great history of an era in style that will never die and is a great read for anyone interested in the history of American style or looking for a map of essential style pieces that are now more than ever staple pieces in American menswear. If you have read Take Ivy I strongly suggest checking this out next.

According to the product description at Amazon, Brocabulary is defined as a revolutionary new lexicon for bonding with your bros. This should make a welcome addition to your man-library. This man-i-festo contains dozens of hilarious definitions of “bro-tastic” words that only a man could understand. It discusses important topics such as brocrastination, the wisdom of friendjamins. Definitely necessary for a man looking for a good laugh and getting some great advice from hilarious author, Daniel Maurer.